In Conversation with: Audrey Paradza

My name is Mrs Audrey Paradza, I am a 26 year old passionate beauty therapist. I have been a big fan of this industry from a very tender age and I am proud to have my passion as a career job. I am married to a very supportive man and my mother believed in my dream since I was young. I am the 5th born and the first girl in my family, I love Mentos sweets. I also love the colours grey and green. I am a bubbly and happy soul. I am also a Christian and I believe that the Lord is the centre of my life.

Where did your passion for make-up come from?

Since birth, it’s something I have always wanted to do, for example at the age of nine I wearing chalk in my eyes and always wanting to be the smart little girl amongst others. I remember getting beaten by my father when he saw pink chalks in my eyes, which was forbidden in my junior school years. He even threatened to disown me if I kept acting like an unHoly child (Hure).

Did you receive any training for it or are you self-taught? 

I began the journey with no training, I then entered the Vault make up competition in 2017, I came first place and received a full kit as well as one-year training from the Hollywood based Makeup artist Jacque Mgido. The training was amazing. I am currently studying at Elite School of beauty where I am learning professionalism, ethics as well as to match the international standards out there.

How important has the training been in terms of helping you run your business? 

It has been amazing, 59% of who I am now is because of the training I am receiving from both Elite and Jacque Mgido.

Where does the inspiration for your make up come from? 

It comes from within, just being able to express inner beauty and rejuvenating self-esteem.

Who are the make-up artists that inspire you and why them?

Jacque Mgido – because of her humble heart and how she has managed to penetrate and bring back to her home Zimbabwe. I am also inspired by VegasNay I just love how she does her work.

What are the main things you consider before applying a client’s make up?

The person’s expectations.

Describe a typical day in your life. 

Saturday is a rat race- work can begin as early as 3am and never get time to eat- it will be weddings and makeovers until the hour of 9pm story of my life. Saturdays are very interesting.

Who has been your favourite client so far?

All of them, including the ones who just inquire on the services I offer.

When you are not working what do you do to relax?

Sleep & Dance….with my makeup in mind loool.

If you were to do something for a year what would it be and why?

Makeovers to those who think they are facially disadvantaged and have lost self-esteem-To boost their confidence and encourage wellness.

What is the soundtrack to your life? 

He Reigns by Kevin Levar.

How would your friends and family describe your personality? 

Bubbly, enthusiastic and very energetic.

Who inspires you the most in life? 

My mother- strongest woman I know.

What are you most proud of about being Zimbabwean?

People appreciate good things.

How would you like to be remembered?

My smile and my will to help.

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially in the beauty industry? 

To give it their all, and the will achieve their dreams. The struggle is real but so are the blessings.

Social media

IG: audrey_themakeupartist

Facebook: Audrey_themakeup_artist